It’s rare to find common ground between leaders as distinct as Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Yet, upon closer examination, there are several key issues where their policies overlap. Let’s examine where both administrations have shown alignment on various national priorities.
Importance of Space Exploration
Trump revitalized interest with the creation of the Space Force, aiming to ensure U.S. dominance in space. Biden has continued this emphasis, supporting NASA’s Artemis program to return Americans to the Moon and beyond.
Need for Infrastructure Improvement
Both leaders agree on the urgent need for major investments in infrastructure. Trump proposed significant infrastructure spending during his term, though Congress did not pass his plans. Biden has successfully pushed forward with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Support for Veterans
Trump signed the VA MISSION Act to improve healthcare services for veterans, while Biden has continued to prioritize funding and reform for veterans’ health programs. Both administrations have advocated for better mental health resources and job training for veterans.
Opposition to Extensive Offshoring
Trump’s presidency was marked by efforts to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. Biden shares the sentiment of reducing dependency on foreign manufacturing, emphasizing a similar “Buy American” policy to strengthen domestic industries. Both view the restoration of American manufacturing as vital to economic security and job creation.
Protecting Social Security
Despite different fiscal policies, both have publicly committed to protecting Social Security. Trump stated during his presidency that he would not make cuts to this vital program. Similarly, Biden has promised to protect and even expand Social Security benefits, acknowledging its importance to American retirees.
Expanding Broadband Access
Trump signed legislation to improve rural broadband infrastructure, and Biden has continued with significant funding in his infrastructure plan to bridge the digital divide. This is seen as essential for education, healthcare, and economic development.
Criminal Justice Reform
Both presidents have shown support for criminal justice reform, albeit in different capacities. Trump signed the First Step Act, which made significant reforms to sentencing laws and improved conditions in federal prisons. Biden has supported further reform measures, focusing on reducing incarceration rates and addressing racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
Enhancing Cybersecurity
Both leaders have advocated for strengthening cybersecurity measures. Trump launched several initiatives to safeguard critical infrastructure and government networks. Biden has built on these foundations, proposing increased funding and new strategies to combat cyber threats.
Getting Allies to Chip In For NATO
Despite Trump’s initial skepticism about NATO, his administration supported the alliance by urging member countries to increase their defense spending. Biden has continued to strengthen ties with NATO, reiterating America’s commitment to the alliance and its importance to global security. Both agree on the necessity of having strong alliances and both want other countries paying their fair share.
Reducing Prescription Drug Prices
Trump attempted to lower prices through various executive orders aiming at pricing transparency and importation. Biden has also advocated for measures to reduce drug costs, including allowing Medicare to negotiate prices directly.
Expanding Access to Childcare
Both presidents have acknowledged the need for expanded childcare access to support working families. Trump expanded tax credits to help parents with childcare expenses. Biden has aimed to build on this by pushing for more direct funding to childcare programs.
Promoting Clean Energy
Trump touted the benefits of natural gas and nuclear energy as cleaner alternatives to coal, and Biden has heavily promoted a broader green energy agenda, including significant investments in renewable energy.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis
Addressing the opioid epidemic is a critical area where both administrations have shown commitment. Trump declared it a public health emergency and increased federal funding for treatment. Biden has continued to prioritize this issue.
Supporting Paid Family Leave
Trump advocated for paid family leave in federal budgets, and Ivanka Trump championed this cause during his administration. Biden supports expanding these policies, aiming to ensure broader coverage for families.
Preserving Public Lands
Both leaders have shown an interest in preserving public lands, though their policies differ in scope and method. Trump designated funds for national park maintenance, while Biden has focused on expanding land protections and addressing climate change impacts on public areas.
Enhancing Air Traffic Control
Modernizing America’s air traffic control systems has been acknowledged by both Trump and Biden as necessary for improving aviation safety and efficiency. Trump proposed privatizing air traffic control to expedite modernization, while Biden supports modernization within the existing framework, ensuring upgrades to technology and infrastructure.
Combating Human Trafficking
Trump established an office dedicated to fighting human trafficking and signed several pieces of legislation aimed at ending this global scourge. Biden has continued to prioritize this issue, increasing resources for combating trafficking and supporting victims.
Bolstering AI Development
Trump launched the American AI Initiative, which focused on increasing AI development and policy. Biden has continued to promote AI through funding and by encouraging ethical guidelines to govern its use.
Improving Water Infrastructure
Improving America’s aging water infrastructure is a point of consensus, with both administrations allocating funds for upgrades and repairs. Trump signed water infrastructure bills that facilitated improvements in drinking water systems and waterway management. Biden’s infrastructure plans include significant investments in water infrastructure.
Supporting Space Commerce
Both leaders have supported policies to boost commercial space ventures, seeing it as an area of strategic and economic opportunity. Trump streamlined regulations to facilitate private space exploration and commerce. Biden has continued to support the commercial space sector, recognizing its role in driving innovation and economic growth.
Promoting American Manufacturing
Trump implemented tariffs and advocated for “America First” policies to revive manufacturing sectors. Biden has emphasized a similar commitment through his “Buy American” initiatives and support for manufacturing sectors transitioning to green technologies.
